What to wear to the races....

Womenswear for race day

We women are quite partial to a trip to the races, and not just for the champagne. These days the sport is doing its best to encourage us to dress up and enjoy a typically British social gathering. After all, a day out with friends, best frock, and strawberries and cream - what’s not to like? But what to wear?  As every in-store Personal Stylist knows, a day at the races is one of those occasions where there are some useful rules to stick to in order to avoid a fashion faux-pas.

Starter's orders

Whilst fashion is a very important aspect to many of the big race meetings such as Royal Ascot, The Investec Derby or The Grand National, dress code is generally much more relaxed the rest of the time. 

However, Premier or Members Enclosures will often require smart casual attire, and the key is to keep comfortable. If you’re unsure of what the dress code is on a particular day though, it’s best to check with the racecourse.  Officials can be strict about barring entry to anyone unsuitably dressed.

This is especially the case at Royal Ascot where the rules are very stringent. Strapless, halter or spaghetti-strap dresses are banned, as are obvious midriffs. Straps must be wider than an inch; dresses and skirts must be at least knee-length.

Hats are a must in the Royal Enclosure and Grandstand. Fascinators are forbidden, as is any headpiece with a base of less than 4in (10cm). Trousers must be full-length.

Ladies’ Day is usually dressed up to the nines with hats, but I have a simple rule for headgear; if you have a high or big enough forehead then wear one, and if not, a fascinator may suit you better.

The runners

You’ll be wearing your outfit all day, so make sure you’re comfortable.  A flowery day dress that you can layer if chilly is a good choice, but steer clear of cocktail dresses. 

If your hips aren’t as svelte as you’d like, try this stunning Phase Eight Garda Dress with a tulle underlay that creates a flare shape along the skirt which will gently skim over your thighs and highlight your waist.. Crafted to flatter your figure, the sculpted bodice and detachable tie cinches the waist for a truly feminine silhouette.  Complete the glamour by adding the John Lewis Cally hat that oozes femininity.

If your figure is fairly straight up and down, this gorgeously fitted Angel Fall Dress by Damsel in a Dress is the epitome of femininity and elegance with its curve-skimming lace fabric and knee length hem.  This style is finished with a subtle striped lining and a cut out detail at the back. 

Team it with a beautiful  John Lewis Shantung hat.  With a structured shape it features a wide conical brim that elegantly shades the face and finished off with rows of sinamay ribbon and feminine swirls to the side. 

A pretty cardigan to tone with your dress is also practical  – there are fabulous fitted shrugs than not only are a flattering alternative to a jacket, but keep you warm. I love the John Lewis shrug or  even a pashmina. 

Shoes can make or break an outfit, but go for comfort as well as style because you’re going to be in them all day, and sometimes on grass - disappearing into the soil is not an elegant look. With a shift dress, low pretty pumps are a reliable option. The Martha by Dune is a glamorous alternative to heels, the pumps are crafted from ivory satin and encrusted with tiny, twinkling diamanté beads.

Dune - Martha

Wedge court shoes are very in at the moment in bright colours or neutrals and Abbie by Carvela will go with everything and be comfortable for a long day.

A small light umbrella is a must.  If possible, try and tone it to your outfit, and of course a handbag that can lodge under your arm (we’ve a huge range of clutches) or cross body always helps when you’re trying to fill in your betting slip!   An eye catching bag from Dune which is crafted from colourful suede with a fabric lining, and featuring a branded metal lock and a chain strap that can be stowed inside the bag if not required but very useful when you need your hands free to hold your champagne flute, and of course count your winnings!

 The finishing post

There’s no doubt that fashions are hugely diverse at the races. Too-small dresses and outrageous hats can make it look more like Friday night clubbing than My Fair Lady.  At the other extreme, there’s no fun in looking too straight-laced and sensible.

So whenever your race day takes place, hold your head up because  “whenever you wear your hat, your day will be special”. And for further advice, and a tour through the vast array of outfits on offer, you can book a free appointment with one of my fellow Personal Stylists in our shops for some friendly help and inspiration to find your perfect racing colours.   

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